A Grade 8 teacher is facing three charges in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a 13-year-old male student at Hollycrest Middle School in Toronto.

The accused, 34-year-old Joseph Diletto, is a full-time teacher at the school, located at 630 Renforth Dr., near Rathburn Road in Etobicoke. Mr. Diletto has been charged with one count each of sexual interference, sexual exploitation and sexual assault.

Police became aware of accusations against him on Wednesday at about 3:30 p.m. and he was arrested later in the evening, according to Det.-Const. Jas Mrahar.

He said both the student’s mother and Hollycrest Middle School contacted police after the mother initially reported her concerns to the school.

He said the student’s mother became aware of what was allegedly going on when she discovered “inappropriate messages” that had been sent to her son through text messages.

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Mr. Diletto was in court Thursday morning and was released on bail for $2,500 on the condition he would not have any contact with the complainant or be in the company of anyone under 16 without the presence of another adult. He must also reside at his own address according to the bail conditions.

Mr. Diletto’s lawyer, Louis Strezos, said his client “will be vigorously defending these charges” but had no further comment.

Police say the school has been co-operating with its investigation.

Toronto District School Board spokesperson Ryan Bird said Mr. Diletto has been teaching at Hollycrest Middle School on contract for nine years and most recently served as a Grade 8 teacher. According to the Ontario College of Teachers website, he is qualified to teach in the primary and junior divisions (Kindergarten to Grade 6) and is certified as a drama teacher for students in Grades 7-10.

The TDSB has placed Mr. Diletto “on home assignment” and he won’t be at the school until the completion of police and TDSB investigations, according to Mr. Bird.

The school board says parents are welcome to call if they have any questions or concerns. Const. Mrahar said police believe there could be other victims and are urging anyone with further information to come forward.